Catapres (Clonidine) for Anxiety: Usage, Facts, and Side Effects

Catapres (Clonidine) for Anxiety Usage, Facts, and Side Effects

The medicines listed on this website are only there to give you knowledge. Just because they are on the list doesn’t mean that anyone will be given them; in the end, treatment decisions are up to the healthcare workers. The medicines on this list are not all of them. Doctors may recommend other drugs, even ones that don’t contain stimulants, depending on the patient’s specific health needs and circumstances.

Catapres (clonidine hydrochloride[1*]) is a medicine that effectively treats hypertension, anxiety episodes, panic disorder, and other illnesses. Panic disorder (PD) is a common anxiety illness that may disrupt your daily life as you learn to avoid locations or circumstances that may cause panic attacks. Catapres does not treat panic disorder, but it may help you control the symptoms.

But may Clonidine assist with anxiety? Yes, Catapres therapy seeks to lessen the intensity and frequency of panic attacks, ensuring that they do not interfere with your personal, professional, academic, or social life. Aside from addressing mental health disorders like anxiety, this medicine is also effective in treating high blood pressure (hypertension). Continue reading to learn more about Clonidine, including its uses, side effects, medication interactions, and other critical details.

How to Use Clonidine for Anxiety?

Catapres is often given orally twice a day, one in the morning and one at nighttime, to increase efficacy. The reduced dosage is frequently taken after bedtime to reduce the possibility of unwanted effects.

Take Clonidine exactly as directed, even if you begin to feel better. It is critical that you do not stop taking this medicine without first visiting your doctor. When you stop using Catapres, you may have symptoms ranging from nervousness and agitation to a strong headache or even inability to control your actions.

Even if you feel better for a while, you may need to alter your dose or use Catapres in conjunction with another medicine. The medication’s efficacy may diminish as your body adapts.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dosage of Clonidine, take it as soon as possible. If it is nearly time for the next dosage, skip the missed dose and return to your normal prescription regimen. Do not raise the dosage if you missed the prior one. And, if you miss more than one dosage of your medicine, contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Side Effects of Clonidine

Side Effects of Clonidine

If any of the following symptoms are severe or persistent, contact your doctor:

Severe symptoms may need rapid medical attention and include:

Other adverse effects that are not mentioned above may occur. So, always visit your doctor if you have any concerns about any strange symptoms you are experiencing while taking Clonidine.

Symptoms Of Catapres Overdose

In the event of an overdose, contact the poison control center immediately at 1-800-222-1222. If the person has a seizure, has difficulty breathing, or collapses, immediately contact 911. Common signs of Catapres overdose are:

Drug interactions

Always use caution while using Catapres with other medicines, since it may decrease your breathing or make you tired. These medicines include:

To minimize these unpleasant side effects, always discuss your medical history with your healthcare professional before using Catapres for anxiety.

The use of clonidine for panic attacks

Clonidine has been used in medicine for over 40 years and has shown efficacy in treating panic episodes. Manufacturers supply this drug in tablet or patch form for long-term use, as well as solution form. Clonidine is sold under the following brand names.

Clonidine Dosage For Anxiety

Because dosages vary from person to person, your doctor will advise you on how much to take and how often. Your dosage may be adjusted many times to see what works best for you. Never use or take more medication than your doctor prescribes.

Take the extended-release tablet orally, without crushing, cutting, or chewing. You may take the pill with or without meals. Clonidine extended-release pills operate differently from Clonidine immediate-release tablets, therefore do not switch between the two unless your doctor instructs you to.

Clonidine is often accompanied with an important information leaflet. Read everything carefully, follow the directions, and ask your doctor for clarification if you don’t understand anything.

Clonidine dose for anxiety in adults is determined by a number of variables when administered orally via extended-release tablets. Clonidine is available as 0.1 mg, 0.2 mg, and 0.3 mg pills, as well as transdermal patches. The initial dosage for the pill is typically 0.1 mg twice a day, while the patch is 0.1 mg once a day. Your doctor may modify the dosage later based on your reaction to therapy.

The dangers of clonidine withdrawal

Although there is no scientific proof that Clonidine produces euphoric effects, many individuals grow hooked on the medicine. Catapres withdrawal symptoms are severe and should be constantly monitored by a medical expert. Here are some typical symptoms of clonidine withdrawal:

Clonidine withdrawal can sometimes harmful and sometimes deadly. So, you must continue to take this medicine in accordance with your doctor’s instructions. Do not discontinue taking the recommended dosage without visiting your doctor, since this may cause withdrawal symptoms. If you notice any adverse effects, call your doctor right away.

Get Clonidine Anxiety Treatment from Experts!

Our medical practitioners are well-trained and credentialed to treat a variety of mental and emotional issues, including anxiety and panic disorders.

We understand how difficult and time-consuming it may be to visit a medical institution for mental health concerns.